A SPECTACULAR day of celebration welcomed a delegation from Abingdon's newest twin in October 1977.

Hundreds of people gathered to watch a civic procession to Abbey Hall as the Italian city of Lucca became Abingdon's fourth 'twin town'.

The visitors were treated to the traditional bun-throwing from the top of County Hall, while the party continued with a civic lunch, music and dancing.

An illuminated scroll recording the event and an embroidered panel showing Abingdon landmarks was presented to the Italian delegation, who gave a casket bearing the towns' crests and coins from Lucca's history in return.